Banner Elk, NC
Pedal part of the spectacular 469-mile-long ridgeline highway that runs along the crest of the southern Appalachian Mountains. This is one of the most scenic rides in the country, with vast expanses and mild traffic patterns. Give your legs a workout as you cycle past blooming rhododendrons, misty tunnels, and even the occasional black bear.

Colorado
Pick your poison; on or off the trail, Colorado doesn’t disappoint. Just make sure your lungs are up for it! The spectacular 48-mile Mount Evans Road incline in Idaho Springs will challenge even the most seasoned roadie. Massive saw-toothed peaks greet your efforts as you climb the switchbacks to the top.

Santa Fe, NM
Terrain for every skill level on the vast number of mountains and public lands surrounding this beautiful city make Santa Fe one of the best mountain bike towns in the country. You can also test yourself on a 20, 50, or 100 mile ride through the prettiest road routes in the state.

Moab, Utah
The legendary slickrock of Moab is the place to be for scenic and challenging off-road cycling. Beautiful red canyons and mesa tops will take your breath away, but don’t take your eyes off the trail ahead of you. This mountain bike mecca is both challenging and rewarding for riders new and experienced.

About the Author

About the Author: Pat Barcas serves as staff writer and photographer for RTX Traveler Magazine, based in Asheville, NC. His favorite RTX destinations are on the beach: Orange Beach, Alabama, New Smyrna Beach, Florida, and Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. More from this author.

Subscribe

If you enjoyed this article, subscribe now to receive more just like it.

Welcome to RTX Traveler Online!

Thank you for visiting RTX Traveler Online! Here you will find all of the issues of RTX Traveler Magazine, sorted by issue, featured destination and section. This site is also home of the RTX Blog, where you can find the most up to date information about our member specials, featured destinations, Xclusive Weeks and more. To learn more about RTX membership levels or to log in to your account, visit www.RTX.travel.